Antique offers a surreal beauty among the many provinces in the Philippines. A tropical paradise of your wildest dreams, it boasts vibrant mountains and islands, as well as other tourist spots that can’t be missed. Not sure where to start? Let this list help you out.
Also read: 8 Guimaras Tourist Spots You Must Visit on Your West Visayas Trip
Who would have thought that one would find paradise right behind Boracay? Malalison Island (or Mararison) is acknowledged as a superb, crowdless alternative to White Beach. It has crystal-clear waters and colourful coral reefs. With its white sand beaches standing out against the blue sea, you can easily mistake this island for a painting. Good thing that you can actually live on Malalison Island, or at least go for a vacation!
One of the most sought-after Antique tourist spots happens to be a solitary island. Seco Island is the perfect destination for a thrilling tropical adventure. But, sailing to it demands patience since it’s a three-hour boat ride from Culasi to the middle of the Sulu Sea.
The journey reaps an impressive and gorgeous reward. Like Boracay, Seco Island also has fine, bone-white sand that’s easy on the feet. Since a vast part of the beach is ankle-deep, it is also a prime destination for kitesurfing.
Observing marine life can be quite leisurely, especially on Nogas Island. The shallow waters that surround this island mean that beginning snorkelers can try out the activity with minimal risk. Reefs are abundant on Nogas Island; visitors can easily observe marine life because of the proximity of resorts to diving spots. Most resorts also rent out snorkelling equipment, so don’t worry about bringing gear!
Also read: 10 Gorgeous Islands & Beaches in Leyte for Sun, Sand & Surf
Mount Madja-as has everything that will test a veteran mountaineer’s mettle. The rocky terrain is challenging and the dense rainforest is heavy and mossy. Madja-as is heralded as the highest point in Panay and is recognised as a difficult mountain for a reason!
Those who dare to brave Madja-as’ perilous trails will discover Antique’s many natural treasures. Scattered in its trails are refreshing waterfalls for the weary. Upon reaching the summit of Madja-as, mountaineers will find an overcast sea of clouds along with a gorgeous view of the sunrise.
Also read: 14 Mountains in the Philippines With the Most Incredible Views
Igbaclag Caves perfectly characterises the surreal beauty of Antique. These karst rock formations are also known as Stone Castles since they resemble the mighty fortifications scattered throughout Europe. While the imagery of sharp, protruding rocks from the earth may seem imposing, the stone formations in Igbaclag are surprisingly nurturing to grapevines and moss. The same vegetation surrounding the formations creates a cooler temperature around the area, so don’t forget to keep warm!
Also read: These 10 Enigmatic Caves in the Philippines Will Leave You in Awe
It’s still amazing that an agricultural marvel like the Hidden Rice Terraces managed to stay undiscovered until just recently. It helps that three mountains and two waterfalls surround Barangay General Fullon, where the irrigated plantations meet in the middle. The Iraynon Bukidnon community collectively own parcels of the rice terraces, which they continue to cultivate until this day.
River rapid kayaking is an excellent activity to do when in Antique province, and Tibiao River is the best spot to try it out. Each area of the river will help develop different levels of kayaking techniques. Calmer parts of the river are where beginners can try out paddling while parts with rocks are intended to develop a kayaker’s manoeuvrability. And if just lounging in a river sounds much more fun and relaxing, there’s always river tubing!
What’s better than a beautiful waterfall? Nine beautiful waterfalls, that’s what! The waters coming from Igpasungaw Waterfalls are from a convergence of mountain springs and rivers. The water then runs through a series of cliffs creating cascading waterfalls at different heights. While they are gorgeous to look at, especially at their base, they are hazardous to traverse. Their currents are strong and the surfaces of the river rocks can be very slippery. Be careful!
Also read: 10 Waterfalls in Laguna for a Refreshing Natural Shower
The gleaming turquoise waters of Malumpati Cold Spring aren’t just for show. For the locals of Pandan, this is the best destination to ward off the intense heat. Its cool waters come from many different river springs. The vegetation from Malumpati Forest that regularly brings a refreshing breeze is also a bonus.
The water that comes from Malumpati Cold Springs is just a part of the mighty Bugang River. Its waters originate from Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park and are the main source of water for five barangays. Maintaining the cleanliness of this river is of utmost importance since this is also home to 38 different species of fish. It’s not recognised as the “Cleanest Inland Body of Water” for nothing!
Also read: Philippine National Parks & Nature Getaways for Weekend Vacationers
It’s pretty safe to say that any of these Antique tourist spots are breathtaking, one way or another. The province is truly blessed, not just with its beautiful landscapes and islands, but also with natural resources. Thrills, enjoyment, or simply sightseeing, Antique just has it all. And, it’s time for everyone else to know.
Featured image credit: Peter Martin | Wikimedia Commons
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